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Shimba Hills · Wildlife Safari

Shimba Hills Coastal Safari

  • DurationFull day
  • Group size1–12 guests
  • DifficultyEasy
  • AvailabilityOn request
From KES 13,500 per person
Book now Request a quote
Shimba Hills Coastal Safari

Overview

Shimba Hills safari: a wildlife day trip from the coast

Shimba Hills National Reserve sits on a forested plateau inland from Kenya’s south coast, only around an hour from Mombasa and the Diani area by road. Cooler and greener than the beach, it protects patches of coastal rainforest and grassland that are home to elephants and the only sable antelope population in Kenya. For beach-holiday travellers, it is the simplest way to add a real safari day without an overnight stay.

What makes Shimba Hills special

Shimba Hills is small compared with Tsavo or the Mara, but its variety is impressive. Elephants live in the forest and grassland, and you might also see buffalo, bushbuck, colobus monkeys and many forest birds. The sable antelope, with its sweeping curved horns, is the reserve’s emblem; viewing depends on time of day, weather and luck. Because the forest is thick, wildlife is often harder to see than on open plains, so patience and a good guide help.

Sheldrick Falls

A short guided walk through forest leads to Sheldrick Falls, a waterfall in a shady, fern-lined valley. The trail is relatively easy but can be slippery after rain, so sturdy shoes are recommended. Swimming at the pool depends on conditions and reserve rules.

Viewpoints

Several viewpoints give wide views over the coastal plain and, on clear days, towards the Indian Ocean. They make good photo stops and, with time, sundowner-style pauses can be arranged where allowed.

How the day works

You are picked up from your hotel in the morning, drive to the reserve gate and spend several hours on game drives, viewpoints and the Sheldrick Falls walk. Lunch is normally taken at a nearby restaurant or as a picnic. You return to your hotel in the late afternoon. The day trip can be combined with a Wasini Island trip on a separate day.

Best time to visit

Wildlife can be seen year-round. Dry periods are easier for driving and walking, while the rains bring lush scenery and muddy paths.

Good to know

The price is a guide per adult sharing a vehicle and is confirmed in writing before payment. Wear light layers, bring insect repellent and water, and follow ranger instructions on all walks.

Highlights

  • Sable antelope habitat
  • Elephants in coastal rainforest
  • Sheldrick Falls walk
  • Easy day trip from the beach

Itinerary

  1. 1

    Morning – Hotel pickup

    Drive from Mombasa or the south coast to the Shimba Hills gate.

  2. 2

    Late morning – Game drive and viewpoints

    Look for sable antelope, elephants and forest birds, with photo stops at viewpoints.

  3. 3

    Afternoon – Sheldrick Falls and return

    A guided walk to the falls, lunch and the drive back to your hotel.

What’s included

Included

  • Return transfers from Mombasa, Diani or Ukunda area hotels
  • driver-guide
  • Shimba Hills reserve fees
  • game drive
  • bottled water

Not included

  • Lunch
  • Sheldrick Falls guide gratuity
  • tips
  • personal expenses

Practical information

Departure
Mombasa, Diani and Ukunda hotels, morning
Pickup
Mombasa, Diani, Ukunda and Tiwi hotels
Meeting point
Confirmed after pickup location is provided
Accommodation
Day trip, no accommodation included
Best time to go
Year-round; January–March and July–October are drier
Recommended age
All ages
Cancellation & changes
Free request changes before final confirmation; final terms depend on the selected supplier.
How to book
Submit your dates and guest details. Our team confirms availability and the final itinerary before payment.
Guide price basis
Per person sharing, full-day tour from Mombasa or Diani with transport, guide and reserve fees. This is an estimate based on current market rates; the final price is confirmed in writing before any payment.

Frequently asked questions

Will we see sable antelope?

They are the reserve’s signature species and are often seen, but sightings cannot be guaranteed.

Is the Sheldrick Falls walk difficult?

It is a moderate forest walk with steps and can be slippery after rain; wear sturdy shoes.

Can we start from Diani?

Yes. Pickups from Diani, Ukunda, Tiwi and Mombasa are available.

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